Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter) Unsaponifiables

Best

Emollient

Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter) Unsaponifiables at a glance

  • Helps prevent moisture loss
  • Visibly repairs dry, compromised skin and lips
  • The fatty acid and sterol portion of shea butter
  • A rich source of antioxidant vitamin E + skin-soothing compounds

Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter) Unsaponifiables description

_Butyrospermum parkii_ (shea butter) unsaponifiables is an emollient, antioxidant, and skin-soothing ingredient consisting of the fraction of shea butter oil that is not saponified during the refining process. Saponification is a process where alkaline ingredients are combined with glycerine and fats to create soap. Generally, unsaponifiable portions of butters and oils are not included in soaps because they have greater value in products meant to be left on skin. The unsaponifiable compounds in shea butter include vitamin E (tocopherol), sterols, and potent antioxidant compounds research has shown have excellent soothing benefits. These qualities make _Butyrospermum parkii_ (shea butter) unsaponifiables ideal for nurturing very dry or compromised skin and lips. The typical usage level of this concentrated ingredient is between 1-5%; however, skin care brands may use more or less depending on the desired aesthetics and benefits of a given formula. As an example, this form of shea butter lends a smooth texture to products which enhances application. This shea butter-derived ingredient is considered safe as used in cosmetics.

Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter) Unsaponifiables references

  • Clinical, Cosmetic, and Investigational Dermatology, April 2018, pages 213-217
  • International Journal of Molecular Sciences, January 2018, ePublication
  • International Journal of Toxicology, Volume 36, Issue 3, December 2017, pages 51S-129S
  • Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, November 2013, pages 673-686
  • https://cosmeticsinfo.org/ingredient/butyrospermum-parkii-shea-butter-unsaponifiables

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.